Ruth Catharine (Rahn) Schaefer

Ruth Catherine (Rahn) Schaefer was born December 29, 1930, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Reading.

She was the daughter of Rev. Clarence R. and R. Catherine (Hain) Rahn.

Ruth graduated from Muhlenberg High School in June 1948. Then she went on to receive her Bachelor’s degree from Albright College in June 1952. She received her teaching certification from Kutztown University. Ruth taught home economics at West Pottsgrove High School for 4 years in Stowe, PA., and Boyertown High School for 4 years.

She was married August 8, 1953 to Rev. Richard H. Schaefer. They are survived by their two children, Susan R. Stull and Peter R. Schaefer, husband of Mary Ann (Hassler) Schaefer; as well as four grandchildren, Jessica C. Empfield, wife of Matthew Empfield; Courey Y. Pazo, wife of Gregory Pazo; Isabelle M. Stull; and Jonah S. Stull. Also surviving are three great grandchildren, Natalie, Maximus, and Danielle Empfield.

Ruth was licensed in April 1988 to be pastor of Christ’s Church at Lowhill UCC in New Tripoli, and retired in March 1998. The church was served by her father for 55 years. She was active in each church where her husband was called to be the pastor. She served as a camp counselor at the Lutheran Camp of the Ministerium, where her husband was the director; served on the training committee for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod; served on the Penn Northeast UCC Conference Committee; and, with her husband, served the Farmers Advocacy Resource Ministry for the Northeast Lutheran Synod. She served and supported both denominations wherever she was called.

Ruth was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and will be missed dearly.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 1 p.m. at the chapel at Phoebe Berks, 1 Reading Blvd., Wernersville, PA 19565. A visitation will be held from 12-1 p.m. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., Laureldale is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, visit www.StitzelFamilyFuneralHomes.com.

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